Founded in 2012 by Daryl Hively, Guarantee Digital is a Wisconsin-based agency known for its white-label marketing product fulfillment, education, and strategic guidance services. Catering to digital agencies and marketing partners, including notable clients like the Tampa Bay Times and Salem Media Group, Guarantee Digital operates with a fully remote team of advertising veterans. The agency specializes in helping startups to established companies scale their businesses profitably, offering a range of services from performance marketing and SEO to website design and sales enablement.

Inside the Enterprise: Who Is Guarantee Digital?

Guarantee Digital is renowned for its comprehensive suite of services including social media content development, SEO, and website design, the agency thrives on empowering other digital agencies and marketing partners, ranging from startups to established companies, to enhance their scalability and profitability without increasing their workforce.

Founder’s Motive: The Why Behind the Sale

Daryl Hively, after a decade of leading Guarantee Digital and a long career in digital marketing, was ready to transition towards retirement. His goal was to find the right partner to take the helm of the agency, allowing him to step back gradually while ensuring the continued success and growth of the business.

Founder’s Vision: Criteria for the Perfect Acquisition Fit

In his search for a suitable buyer, Daryl was looking for someone who could not only effectively run Guarantee Digital but also drive its growth into the future. He envisioned a partner who would be enthusiastic about leading the agency’s team of digital marketing experts, possess a broad network for cross-selling opportunities, and have the resources necessary for expansion.

Setting the Stage: Preparing Guarantee Digital for Acquisition

Guarantee Digital’s unique selling point is its hyper-specialized white-label program, offering comprehensive support to a wide range of agencies. The agency has established over 200 long-term reseller partnerships and direct clients, thanks to its experienced staff and successful track record in facilitating agency growth and consistent revenue increase.

Attracting Suitors: Strategic Marketing of Guarantee Digital for Acquisition

Partnering with Merge, Daryl aimed to find the perfect buyer. Merge took a deep dive into understanding everything about Guarantee Digital, from its culture to its financials, and developed compelling marketing materials that effectively communicated its value and unique aspects. This strategy attracted multiple full-price offers, including an all-cash bid.

Sealing the Deal: Perfect Matchmaking with the Ideal Buyer

The ideal buyer for Guarantee Digital turned out to be Beasley Media Group, a renowned media group expanding their digital arm. Beasley Media Group’s extensive experience in radio and media, along with its commitment to delivering client results, made it a perfect match to propel Guarantee Digital’s growth.

Unlocking Synergies: Positive Impacts Post-Transaction

The partnership with Beasley Media Group opened new avenues for Guarantee Digital, including expanded cross-selling opportunities and access to greater resources for growth. The alignment of values such as innovation, customer focus, and collaboration between the two organizations promised a synergistic relationship beneficial for both parties.

Finding a New Home: The Merge Difference

Merge’s role was instrumental in this acquisition process. Their personalized and industry-specific approach ensured that Guarantee Digital found a new home with Beasley Media Group, where its legacy could thrive and continue to grow, reflecting Merge’s commitment to successful, strategic business matchmaking.